Spotlight on Stirling: Norde Homes

Building homes that work with the climate, not against it

In a market that often rewards speed over substance, Norde Homes takes a different path. The locally based builder designs and delivers custom, energy efficient homes that place comfort, performance and long-term wellbeing at the centre of every decision. This approach has already produced a milestone. The team has delivered Western Australia’s first two storey, 10-star energy rated home, which shows what is possible when design and construction are aligned with climate.

Norde Homes is clear about its intent. As founder Marco Klaus puts it, “Our vision is to build homes that perform far better than the standard Australian build, homes that stay comfortable naturally, respond intelligently to the climate, and prioritise long-term wellbeing over shortcuts.” That vision guides the method. European building principles and passive solar design shape the homes so comfort comes naturally and energy reliance is reduced.

From a family renovation to a clear philosophy

Marco’s path began early. He learned the trade by helping renovate his family home in the Netherlands while still a teenager. The house was small and dark and did not support daily life. Seeing how thoughtful construction changed the way his family lived set the direction. He trained as a carpenter, studied at night for eight years to complete a Building diploma, and worked across Europe on homes that were well insulated and built for climate performance. When he moved to Perth, he spent years in insurance repairs and “kept seeing the same construction failures repeating across the industry,” an experience that built the case for doing things differently and laid the foundation for Norde Homes.

Why the City of Stirling

The business lives and builds locally, and many projects are delivered within the City of Stirling. That choice is both practical and strategic. “We live locally and construct many of our homes within the City of Stirling,” Marco says. “The City of Stirling is a hub for building companies and their suppliers, placing us right at the centre of our industry network. This also benefits our clients, with many key showrooms and services close by for a smoother selection and build process.” Proximity shortens the distance between client, designer, supplier and site which keeps the process clear and connected.

What sets Norde Homes apart

Norde Homes is unambiguous about its point of difference. It rejects the habits that have shaped local construction and focuses on homes that perform in real conditions. “Norde Homes stands apart because we don’t just build houses, we solve the problems baked into Perth’s construction habits,” Marco explains. The aim is everyday comfort with minimal reliance on mechanical heating and cooling. The team draws on European standards and passive solar thinking, so each decision supports durability and long-term performance.

The realities of building and how the team responds

Custom home building is demanding work. Capacity depends on strong trade relationships and a steady approach to delivery. Marco is frank about the challenge. “Finding reliable trades is tough across the industry, so we make sure to keep up with rate fluctuations and nurture good relationships with the teams we want to stick with.” The culture inside the business is built on curiosity and care. “Building custom homes is demanding, so it’s essential to truly love what you do and have a genuine passion for the industry to achieve long-term success. It’s a role where you learn something new every day, so a mindset of continuous improvement, both for the business and your personal growth, is essential.”

Growth with a clear focus

Norde Homes has been in business for 15 years, but its strongest growth began after re-branding in 2024 and focusing on energy efficient construction. “Our clients are now coming to us specifically for this expertise. We are a small, close-knit team of five, with each of us involved in all of our clients’ homes and playing a significant role in the build process. We are all invested in the success of the business and excited to help it reach the next level over the coming years.”

Advice for other local businesses

The guidance Norde Homes offers to peers across the City of Stirling is pragmatic and grounded. Big shifts are built on small steps repeated with care. As Marco puts it, “Progress comes from small steps, aim to improve a little every day to reach your goals.”

Visit the Norde Homes website to learn more. 

Spotlight on Stirling showcases the people and businesses shaping our local economy. Each feature highlights the stories, ideas and experiences behind businesses operating in the City of Stirling, celebrating success and innovation. Local businesses are encouraged to contact us to share their story and inspire others.